Files are among the most indispensable tools for working with wood or metal. In this guide, we’ll be taking a look at some of the different types of files and rasps available, along with how to pick up a quality tool you can count on.
Files are hand tools used to remove fine amounts of material in woodworking and metalworking. Most files consist of a round, square or triangular bar of hardened steel, covered with ridges. A tang is common at the end of the file, to which a handle is often fitted.
How to choose a file
Files and rasps are often referred to as the same thing, but they’re actually quite different. While both tools share many similar characteristics, a file has ridges across its length to get the job done. These ridges come in all different shapes, sizes and configurations across the file, in order to achieve the desired effect.
Files are often divided into three main categories by way of their ridges/purpose as follows:
- Sanding files – These files feature ridges of up to 1mm in height for an extremely aggressive and abrasive action.
- Medium files – Slightly less aggressive with ridges of 0.3mm to 0.5mm – a great everyday tool for a wide variety of applications.
- Fine files – These files feature ridges that are less than 0.2mm in height and are useful for final finishing, or when working with fragile materials.
File profiles
Selecting the appropriate file profile means first taking into account its intended application. The next step is to choose a profile from the following four primary categories:
- Dish files – Designed to eliminate imperfections and smooth protrusions on flat objects.
- Round files – Far more useful and practical when working with spherical objects.
- Half-Round files – A versatile choice with multiple applications and a toolbox essential.
- Square, triangular and diamond files – Good for sharpening blades and other more specific applications.
How to choose a rasp
A rasp is a long bar of metal (usually steel) that has rows of teeth along its length. These teeth are responsible for the abrasive action of the rasp, which are positioned in different arrangements. They also offer different intensities (sharpnesses) depending on the materials being working on.
Generally speaking, the teeth of a rasp are divided into three categories for simple identification:
- Fine Teeth – These rasps are ideal for finishing and putting a smooth, even final polish to a variety of surfaces.
- Average Teeth – Slightly more aggressive in their abrasiveness, average teeth suitable for most everyday requirements and are an essential carpentry tool.
- Course Teeth – If you’re simply looking to remove as much material as quickly as possible, course teeth would be the preferred option.
Rasp profiles
There are also three primary rasp profile categories, which refers to the shape and general specification of the metallic component of the tool:
- Flat rasps – As the name suggests, these rasps are flat on all sides and are therefore suitable for use on flat surfaces and materials.
- Round rasps – A round rasp can be exceptionally useful when working on round objects or irregular surfaces.
- Half round rasps – This can be a useful multipurpose tool with the capacity to do the job on a wide variety of objects and surface shapes.
File tips and guidelines
If you are likely to be using a file or rasp on a regular basis, it is advisable to select a tool for specific your purposes. There’s technically not a ‘one size fits all’ tool for the job, so you’ll find it useful to have several options close to hand.
In addition, it’s worth remembering that the quality of the file or rasp you choose will make a big difference. If the teeth or ridges on the tool are eroded and go blunt after just a couple of uses, you’ll need to replace your tool sooner than planned.
